With summer approaching, you may be planning out your family vacation. Driving is an easy, affordable way to reach your destination, but you might already be hearing the dreaded “are we there yet?” echoing in your head. To help you fight car boredom and ensure everyone reaches your location with their sanity intact, the guide below offers four ways to pass the time on the road, like snacks and gas station stops.  

4 Ways to Keep Kids Engaged on Long Road Trips

1. Bring Snacks

Buying snacks that you don’t normally get can be an exciting way to start your vacation, and they can also tie over hungry kids until you’re ready to stop for a meal. Look for snacks that are easy to pack and will leave a minimal mess, like candy or granola bars, dried fruit and nuts, and beef jerky.

2. Make Stops Along the Way

Being stuck in a cramped car for hours on end can make your muscles feel stiff, so its important to make stops that allow everyone to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Look for historical landmarks, parks, or even gas stations along your route where you can take a moment to rest and get ready for the next leg of your trip.

3. Engage Them With Stories

Whether it’s a book, movie, or audiobook, getting your children engaged with stories is a fantastic way to make the hours fly by. Audiobooks let everyone participate in hearing the same story and can build memories that will last a lifetime. If your kids are avid readers, encourage them to bring some books for the car. Packing a portable DVD player or using a laptop for movies can also alleviate boredom.

4. Play Car Games

There are dozens of fun car games that can help you pass the time. Try the alphabet game, where you try to find letters from A to Z on the billboards, license plates, and store signs that you pass.

Or play My Cows! – the first person to spot a field with cows in it can claim them by calling, “I see X number of my cows.” Whoever has the most cows at the end of a decided period wins, but if a player spots a pond, they can cancel out another player’s herd.

Leaving for vacation from Tripoli, WI, or just passing through on a road trip? Visit Tri-Mart BP to fuel up and get some snacks for the road. Their pumps are open 24/7, and their convenience store is stocked with a wide range of beverages, snacks, and hot food. They also offer propane fuel for homeowners under the name Tripoli Propane. Learn more about their services online and call (715) 564-2440 with any questions.